Global Week Returns to East Stroudsburg University

Posted by: Elizabeth Richardson on March 30, 2018, No Comments

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania welcomes back, for the third year, Global Week. Taking place Monday, April 2 – Saturday, April 8, Global Week will allow ESU students, faculty, staff and the local community to celebrate the rich diversity that makes up the campus community.

This year’s theme is Mosaic. “The Mosaic theme represents our campus,” said Doreen Tobin, D.Ed., vice president for student affairs. “Our students, faculty and staff are made up of many different cultures, religions, races, preferences. As individuals, we are all different. But, when we come together, we make a very clear image of what it means to be a Warrior.”

The events for the week include discussions about race, politics, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and physical ability. The main event, the World Fair, will include Musaik Fest—with multicultural performances, China Town Café—with a tea ceremony and activities from China, a live petting zoo, and traditional activities and treats from around the world

All activities listed below are open to the general public:

Monday, April 2

“Open Book”

1-4 p.m., Kemp Library

Faculty and staff will be “books” that students can “check out” to learn more about the individual’s history, beliefs, and culture.

“Arts Slam”

5 – 6:30 p.m., Fine and Performing Arts Center

Students compete to produce art that expresses the beauty in diversity. Art forms will include poetry, painting, sculpture/3D, graphic design, and performing arts.

“Light It Up Blue”

7:30 – 9 p.m., University Center Courtyard

As part of World Autism Awareness Day there will be presentations centered on bringing awareness to Autism.

Tuesday, April 3

“World Fair”

1-4 p.m., College Circle

The largest event of the week offers a “trip around the world” right on campus. There will be international food, music, live animals, cultural displays and interactive activities.

“Human trafficking in Our Backyard”

7-8:30 p.m., Beers Lecture Hall

Sex trafficking has become a leading criminal activity, globally. There will be a presentation on the global issues around this topic, and local sex trafficking survivors will share their testimonies.

Wednesday, April 4

“First a Warrior, Then a Hero: Armed Forces Careers”

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Laurel Parking Lot, Shawnee Quad

Representatives from the United States Army, Marines, and Air Force will be on campus.
The Scranton Veteran’s Center mobile unit will also be here to assist veterans, military and family members with benefits. A replica submarine will be on campus courtesy of The United States Submarine Veterans Pocono Base. Battle of the Branches will take place at noon on the quad.

“Gun Culture Across Nations”

4 – 5:30 p.m., Stroud 117

A timely dialogue about gun culture across nations with student representatives from around the world. Conversation will include topics of gun violence, gun control laws, and cultural traits adopted by nations due to gun issues.

“Making Gay History”

7 – 8:30 p.m., Stroud 113

Author Eric Marcus, co-author of Coming Out to Play with Robbie Rogers, and Breaking the Surface with Greg Louganis, will be on campus to talk about the inspiring stories of trailblazers in the gay community, victories in civil rights, and cultural acceptance into the American mainstream.

Thursday, April 5

“Good Without God? Debate”

7:30 – 9 p.m., Stroud 113

Dan Barker, president of the Freedom from Religion Foundation, will debate local religious leaders on the origin of morality. In what promises to be a respectful yet passionate debate, they will explore answers to the question “Can we be good without God?”

Friday, April 6

“Through Their Eyes Conference”

9 a.m. -1 p.m., Innovation Center

This annual conference is devoted to individuals with disabilities and the challenges they have faced, how they have overcome such challenges and succeeded in life, proving that they are not disabilities, but different kinds of ability. Pre-registration for this event is required. Please email atorres18@esu.edu to register.

“Relay for Life”

7 p.m. – 7 a.m., Koehler Fieldhouse

American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life is an overnight fundraiser. During the event participants honor cancer survivors and remember those who have lost their battle. Pre-registration is required for this event. Please register at www.relayforlife.org/paesu.

Saturday, April 7

“International Festival”

4 – 7p.m., University Center

Global Week concludes an exciting week of community, learning, and exploration with an international celebration. This ESU tradition includes international food, a fashion show, activities, presentations, and performances. This event is $5 for non-ESU students.

For more information on any of the Global Week events, please contact Fernando Alcántar, director of student engagement at 570-422-3384, email falcantar@esu.edu, or visit www.esu.edu/globalweek.